Altingiaceae

Description

Altingiaceae is a family of deciduous trees that are native to Asia and North America. The family consists of only two genera: Liquidambar and Semiliquidambar. These trees are known for their distinctive appearance, with their leaves turning brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow in the autumn. They also produce round, spiky fruits.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukaryota
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Spermatophyta
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Saxifragales
Family	Altingiaceae
Genus	Liquidambar, Semiliquidambar

Appearance

Altingiaceae trees are tall and can reach up to 100 feet in height. They have a straight trunk and a broad, rounded crown. Their leaves are deciduous, alternate, and simple, with serrated margins. The leaves are bright green in the spring and summer, but turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow in the autumn. The trees also produce round, spiky fruits that contain small, winged seeds.

Care Guide

To care for Altingiaceae trees, they need moderate watering, fertilization during the growing season, and well-draining soil. They prefer full sun, but can tolerate some shade. Altingiaceae trees are hardy in USDA zones 5 to 9.

Common Pests & Diseases

Altingiaceae trees are susceptible to a few pests and diseases, including scale insects, aphids, and powdery mildew. These can be treated with insecticides or fungicides, depending on the problem.

Habitat

Altingiaceae trees are native to Asia and North America, and are found in a variety of habitats, including forests, fields, and wetlands. They prefer moist, well-drained soil and full sun.

Question and Answer

Q: What is the difference between Liquidambar and Semiliquidambar?

A: Liquidambar has five-lobed leaves and produces a spiny fruit, while Semiliquidambar has three-lobed leaves and produces a smooth fruit.

Q: How often should I water my Altingiaceae tree?

A: Altingiaceae trees need moderate watering, so water them when the soil feels dry to the touch.

Q: Can Altingiaceae trees grow in shade?

A: Altingiaceae trees prefer full sun, but can tolerate some shade.

Q: When do Altingiaceae trees produce their spiky fruits?

A: Altingiaceae trees produce their spiky fruits in the fall.

Related Plants

Other plants in the Saxifragales order include:

• Saxifragaceae
• Crassulaceae
• Hamamelidaceae
• Haloragaceae
• Penthoraceae

References

• “Altingiaceae.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=282684.
• “Liquidambar styraciflua.” University of Connecticut Plant Database, www.hort.uconn.edu/plants/detail.php?pid=266.
• “Semiliquidambar cathayensis.” University of Connecticut Plant Database, www.hort.uconn.edu/plants/detail.php?pid=514.